Priority Risks for Higher Education

This publication identifies common patterns in six key claim areas that tend to increase liability exposure for higher ed institutions. Recognizing these patterns is a critical first step in taking effective action to address them. The losses that cost institutions the most often begin with common situations: a missed red flag, a poorly documented incident, or an inconsistent employment process. This report was designed to show institutions how they can reduce their risks through stronger policies and practices.  

• This report addresses six risk areas in which United Educators’ (UE’s) higher education members collectively experience the most severe and frequent claims: Discrimination; Slips, Trips, and Falls; Sexual Misconduct Against Students; Civil Assaults; Wrongful Termination; and Vehicles.
• UE analyzed claims to compile the most common liability themes. For each area, we created a hypothetical claims-based scenario and provided practical risk management tips designed to help reduce potential liability in similar circumstances.
• Review your own claims experience and use this publication to help improve prevention and response in these risk areas.